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Driving instructor insurance

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What is driving instructor insurance?

Driving instructor insurance is vital if you want to be a driving instructor. It covers the instructor, plus any learner drivers, when they're driving the car.

Starting your own business as a driving instructor can be incredibly rewarding. You could safely teach the next generation of drivers an important life skill, and ensure they're confident in driving on the road.

But getting insured to teach inexperienced drivers requires preparation and hard work. Comparing quotes from insurers who cover dual-control cars and approved instructors can be time-consuming.

Specialised driving school insurance can provide the right level of cover, which is essential in getting your business up and running as quickly as possible.

How do I get started as a driving instructor?

Getting qualified as an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) is a long process. It involves taking a theory, practical and instructor's test.

Even while you're training, you'll need Potential Driving Instructor (PDI) insurance, so you can instruct pupils as part of your qualification.

How is driving school insurance different from standard car insurance?

Driving school insurance covers more than standard car insurance.

Whether you work for an established driving school or for yourself, you need more cover than what's provided with standard car insurance. That's whether you're an Approved or Potential Driving Instructor.

For starters, you need hire and reward cover. This is essential for anyone who makes money by using their car.

The presence of a learner in your car increases the risk factor. Especially now that learners are allowed on motorways.

There are also different extras like a dual-control courtesy car for when your own vehicle is off the road for any period. If you use another car day-to-day it's worth looking at multi-car cover too.

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Why is driving school insurance more expensive?

Driving school insurance prices are usually higher than standard car insurance prices.

Driving instructors need extra cover, and there may be even some discretionary add-ons required. For example, to teach drivers who are under 17 – which has to be done off-road - you need additional cover.

But it's not only the inexperience of learner drivers that can affect your insurance costs. It can also be affected by:

  • The type of car, in terms of engine size and transmission, influences the insurance costs of your car insurance.
  • Where you live can determine how likely you are to have an accident. This can lead to higher insurance costs.
  • The type of instructor you are determines your risk factor. PDIs serve a 6-month probationary period and are a higher risk than ADIs, meaning higher insurance costs. Once you've passed, your insurance costs should lower as you gain experience.
  • The hours you work also determine your risk factor. Whether you work full or part-time, your insurers will create a tailor-made policy that reflects the hours you spend teaching learner drivers.
  • The type of cover you require. The higher your level of cover and the more services you offer as an instructor, the more expensive it may be.

What types of cover are available?

Before you start comparing insurance providers, be clear about the level of cover you need. You might want to consider:

  • Personal accident cover, which covers you and your passengers in the event of an accident.
  • Negligent tuition cover to protect you against any claims your learners might make as the result of an accident.
  • Public liability insurance for you and your business if you’re sued for damages as a result of negligence. This is mandatory for any business.
  • Uninsured driver protection for if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. You can protect your no-claims discount.

Once you know the type of cover that’s right for your business, you can start looking for quotes. Remember, even if the first quote you get appears to be acceptable, it’s always worth comparing more than 1 provider.

How do I find the right cover at the right price?

Make sure the policy provides all the cover you need. It can be tempting to go with the cheapest quote when money's an issue. But before you choose a policy based only on price, take a good look at the policy wording.

A reputable insurer will create a tailor-made policy that gives you the right balance between your budget and the cover provided.

Think carefully about the excess you can afford. A larger excess can bring down your insurance costs, but you need to be able to pay it if you have to make a claim.

Look for an insurer offering flexible payment options. If you're able to pay your insurance costs in one go, you could save money instead of paying monthly.

Ask for clarification if something isn't clear to you. For example, if a courtesy vehicle is important to you in the event of an accident, check that it's included in the policy. Also check the vehicle type will allow you to continue to run your business.

Compare quote with our partner 'Quote Me Today'

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Or call 01227 285 453

Who is Quote Me Today?

Quote Me Happy is a commercial insurance broker based in the UK. They provide tailor made insurance solutions for a range of different customers and businesses.

Quote Me Today are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). They follow the FCA's strict guidelines meaning they work to ensure customers are treated fairly.

Their customers have rated them 'Excellent' on Trustpilot.

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Page last reviewed: 02 November 2023

Reviewed by: Louise Thomas

Driving school insurance is arranged and administered by Quote Me Today Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No: 786619. Registered office, Office 2A, First Floor, 3 Jubilee Way, Whitstable Road, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8GD Registered in England and Wales, No: 04668665. Our service is free and compares a wide range of trusted household names. Confused.com is an intermediary and receives commission, which is a flat rate fee from QuoteMeToday.co.uk if you decide to buy through their website.